Changing a Semi-Truck Tire is a lot Harder Than You Think

Replacing a semi-truck tire and avoiding catastrophe

For semi-truck drivers, changing a flat tire can be harder than you think. It’s so challenging that many drivers hand the job off to a tire service, which uses professional-grade specialized equipment to ensure everything is handled safely and correctly.

Things can get even more complicated if the tire must be removed from the rim. First, the tire must be completely deflated if it isn’t already flat. This is especially true if the truck has an automatic tire inflation system. Then the bead, or the area where the tire sits flush against the rim, must be broken. OSHA notes that this move alone can cause serious injury if done incorrectly.

Once the damaged tire is removed, the new one is positioned onto the rim, and inflation is done from a safe distance, preferably while using a restraining device like a metal cage. The tire is then inflated to the correct air pressure before the wheel is installed back onto the truck. But even after a semi-truck tire has been safely replaced, there’s still a risk of something going wrong.

For example, if the lug nuts aren’t tight enough, the wheel can actually separate from the truck as it’s in motion. This can also happen if the surface beneath the lug nuts is rusted, as this compromises their ability to securely hold the wheel in place. A wheel separation can create a serious road hazard, endangering both the driver and any nearby vehicles. This is why every installation must be followed by an inspection, to ensure that any potential catastrophes are avoided.

It’s worth noting that there are several videos and how-to articles online detailing how “easy” this entire process can be. But the coordination, balance, and careful handling required, especially if the driver doesn’t have experience, makes it much more demanding than it may appear.

Story by Tom Clark.  Read the original article on SlashGear.

Photo shows mechanic wearing ear protection using air compressor drill to bolt a new tire to a a semi-truck© Fangxianuo/Getty Images